Wozniacki, who spent 67 weeks as the world’s top-ranked player but has slipped to 16th, found herself 3-1 down in the second set before breaking back. Zahlavova Strycova, ranked 43rd in the world, failed to convert two match points against Wozniacki’s serve in the 10th game, as her 23-year-old Danish opponent held to level at 5-5.

More match points followed in the 12th game though, and Zahlavova Strycova seized the moment. Following a double fault, Wozniacki sent a floated backhand just wide from close to the net as Zahlavova Strycova secured another outstanding victory.

Heavy rain hit Wimbledon shortly after Wozniacki’s defeat, with play suspended on all courts from 1.30pm.